Standing for long hours on concrete floors or hard surfaces can put repeated pressure on your feet. Over time, this strain may contribute to plantar fasciitis, a condition that affects the band of tissue connecting your heel to your toes. In Illinois, workers’ compensation may cover this condition when job duties cause or aggravate the injury.
Does your job contribute to the injury?
Illinois workers’ compensation may cover plantar fasciitis caused by repetitive work activities. Prolonged standing, repeated movements and hard flooring may contribute to the condition. However, standing for long hours does not automatically qualify you for benefits.
You must show that your work duties caused the condition or made an existing problem worse. A doctor can help establish this connection by reviewing your symptoms, medical history and daily job duties.
What evidence supports your claim?
Gradual-onset injuries can be harder to connect to specific work activities because symptoms develop over time. You need evidence showing how your work activities contributed to the condition.
The following records may help support your claim:
- Medical records: A diagnosis and doctor’s report explaining how your job duties contributed to the condition.
- Work schedules: Records showing how many hours you spend standing during each shift.
- Job descriptions: Details of your regular duties and physical demands.
- Workplace photos: Images showing hard floors, standing workstations or limited opportunities to sit.
- Witness statements: Comments from supervisors or coworkers who know about your daily work conditions.
These records can help show the connection between your job and your foot condition.
When should you file a claim?
Illinois generally requires workers to notify their employer within 45 days of a work-related injury. For gradual-onset injuries, the 45-day period generally begins when both the injury and its connection to work become plainly apparent to a reasonable person. The exact date depends on the circumstances.
You generally have three years from the date the injury manifests itself to file a claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission if no compensation has been paid. If compensation has been paid, a two-year period from the last payment may apply instead, whichever deadline is later.
Report your symptoms promptly and keep copies of your medical and work records. Understanding your rights under Illinois workers’ compensation law can help you take the right steps. A qualified workers’ compensation lawyer can also help you assess your claim and understand your options.
